Discover the Fascinating Yas Marina Circuit: The Most Expensive Formula One Track Ever Built
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Introduction
The Yas Marina Circuit, located on Yas Island just east of Abu Dhabi, is renowned as the most expensive Formula One track ever constructed. With a total investment of $40 billion over the past 11 years, developers have transformed this man-made island into a world-class racing destination. The circuit is surrounded by a range of amenities, including a Ferrari indoor theme park and seven luxurious hotels, including the iconic Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi.
A Unique Track with Rich History
Yas Marina Circuit was completed in October 2009 and immediately joined the Formula One calendar as the season finale. Sebastian Vettel emerged victorious in the inaugural race, defeating his Red Bull teammate Mark Weber and 2009 world champion Jenson Button. Since 2014, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has served as the thrilling conclusion to the Formula One season, with races taking place under the night sky.
Over the years, Yas Marina Circuit has witnessed numerous memorable moments, such as Nico Rosberg’s surprising retirement after winning his first title in 2016 and Max Verstappen’s intense battle for his maiden world championship in 2021.
Track Characteristics
Designed by renowned architect Hermann Tilke, Yas Marina Circuit features three distinct sectors with varying characteristics. Sector One includes two high-speed corners (Turns 2 and 3), while Sector Two boasts two long straights and two DRS zones, providing ample opportunities for overtaking. Sector Three, reminiscent of a street circuit like Monaco, winds its way around the marina and passes under a hotel. Notably, Turns 10, 11, and 12 in Sector Two challenge drivers with hard braking and lateral load, testing their car’s stability.
Over the years, the track has undergone renovations to enhance overtaking opportunities. Key sections, including the hotel section, north hairpin, and South Marina, have been modified. The chicane in the hairpin has been removed, and the former Turns 11-14 have been replaced by the sweeping Turn 9.
One of the unique features of Yas Marina Circuit is its pit exit, which passes through a tunnel beneath the track.
A Sunset Challenge
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix made history as the first Formula One race held at sunset. This presented teams with an additional challenge as the track temperature dropped, affecting grip and car balance. The technical nature of Yas Marina Circuit already demands precision and balance from drivers, making it even more challenging during twilight hours. Understeer becomes more likely as the race progresses.
To accommodate the twilight race format with a 5 p.m. local time start, the circuit has upgraded its lighting system. The new LED system is expected to reduce power consumption by up to 30 percent.
Trivia Corner
- Gear changes: 56
- Most pole positions: Lewis Hamilton (5)
- Most wins: Lewis Hamilton (5)
- Overtakes during the 2022 grand prix: 113
- Time loss during a pit stop: 22.12 seconds
- Safety car probability (based on the last eight races): 38 percent
(Lead image of Lando Norris at the 2023 Abu Dhabi GP: Clive Mason – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)